5 August 2016

FISH NEED TREES TOO - RESTORING MULLET CREEK

WetlandCare Australia's partner organisation Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) has teamed up with Wollongong City Council and William Beach Bushcare to create a biodiverse planting at William Beach Reserve on Mullet Creek. Mullet Creek is a tributary to Lake Illawarra and riparian vegetation in these areas is key to maintaining and improving the health of our waterways and fish populations.

This project has had volunteers tackle invasive species, control erosion and revegetate the riparian zone through the NSW DPI Fisheries’ ‘Habitat Action Grant Program’. This project is managed by CVA with Wollongong Council’s support to educate the community about the importance of vegetation to our local fish populations. The use of fishing licence fees to improve the condition and extent of vegetation along our waterways is a win for both the environment and our local fisher people. 

The aim of the project is to remove invasive plant species across a 200m stretch of Mullet Creek and install 3000 native plants in an area up to 20m wide.  Reaching out to the general community as well as recreational users who depend on the environment to enjoy their activities, allows CVA to build lasting partnerships with local groups and people who share our care and admiration of our local environment. “Working with diverse groups of people from all sectors of our community is the only way to guarantee long term protection of our natural assets” said Adam Woods, Regional Manager of CVA’s Wollongong office and keen local fisherman.

There are a still numerous dates to get involved in this great opportunity for people to meet other like-minded individuals in a safe and comfortable setting.

“This Grant program is an exciting new project for all of the wonderful volunteers who have been working at William Beach Park for over 5 years. The improvements in the bushland setting will increase the habitat of many native animals, birds and fish populations” said Sandra Wheeler, Bushcare Coordinator for William Beach Bushcare.

For more information on the program or opportunities to contribute to the project please contact CVA's Wollongong Office on 02 4228 9246 or via email wollongong@cva.org.au.